Nashville Restaurants Cited for Unsanitary Practices

10 Nashville eateries receive low health inspection scores for issues like machine-washed crawfish and grime buildup

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:47pm

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A ghostly X-ray image showing the internal structure of a kitchen utensil covered in grime and bacteria, conceptually illustrating the unsanitary conditions found in some Nashville restaurants.An X-ray view exposes the unsanitary conditions found in some Nashville restaurants, raising concerns about food safety.Today in Nashville

The Metro Public Health Department in Nashville, Tennessee conducted over 2,300 food service inspections last year, with 10 local restaurants receiving low scores for a range of unsanitary practices, including the use of machines to wash crawfish instead of hand-washing, as well as excessive grime and dirt buildup in food preparation areas.

Why it matters

Proper food safety and sanitation are critical to preventing the spread of foodborne illnesses, which can have serious health consequences, especially for vulnerable populations. The health inspection process helps ensure Nashville restaurants are upholding high standards to protect public health.

The details

The Tennessee Department of Health found that several Nashville restaurants were cited for issues like using machines to wash crawfish instead of hand-washing, allowing excessive grime and dirt to accumulate in food prep areas, and other unsanitary practices that could put diners at risk. Restaurants with the lowest scores will face increased scrutiny and potential fines or closures if problems persist.

  • The Tennessee Department of Health conducted over 2,300 food service inspections in Nashville last year.

The players

Metro Public Health Department

The local government agency responsible for conducting restaurant health inspections in Nashville, Tennessee to ensure food safety and sanitation standards are met.

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What’s next

Restaurants cited for major violations will face re-inspections and potential fines or closure if issues are not addressed in a timely manner.

The takeaway

This report highlights the importance of strict health and sanitation standards in the food service industry to protect public health. Nashville residents should be aware of their local restaurant's inspection scores when deciding where to dine.